Concerns raised over decision to cover speed cameras in the Borders
'Our roads do not appear to be much safer...'
Last updated 15th Aug 2024
It's feared the decision to switch off scores of speed cameras could lead to more accidents in the Scottish Borders.
A number of serious smashes have been recorded on the region's roads in recent weeks.
And local MP John Lamont says that's given local residents cause for concern.
He's met with Police Scotland's Local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Stuart Fletcher, to raise the issue.
"A huge number of local people are very concerned about road safety, particularly now that many speed cameras are no longer operational," Mr Lamont said.
"Our roads do not appear to be much safer than they were previously, but that is the official justification being provided by Police Scotland for this decision."
Cameras on the A1, A68 and A7 are among around 30 in the Borders no longer in use.
"Some recent road incidents have worried local residents," Mr Lamont continued.
"While there is no direct link between any accident and the speed cameras being switched off, our roads also do not seem to be noticeably safer than before."
Nevertheless he added: "I'm grateful to the Chief Inspector for meeting with me to discuss this issue and I will continue to monitor the situation closely."
The Borders MP is urging anyone with any concerns to contact him directly.
READ MORE: Police issue appeal after thieves strike overnight in the Borders
Safety Cameras Scotland said the decision earlier this year to cover a total of 119 cameras across Scotland was taken following improvements in driver behaviour.
The road safety body said the pause allows for a thorough assessment over a three-year period, after which decisions will be made regarding potential decommissioning or reactivation of safety cameras.
Speaking at the time, Mark Patterson, Police Scotland's road policing chief inspector, said: “Safety cameras are strategically deployed to maximise their impact on reducing injury collisions and fatalities on Scotland’s roads
“The positive results from the recent performance review underscore the effectiveness of our efforts.
“We commend drivers for their improved behaviour, which contributes to safer communities and roads.
"As we continue to monitor these sites, Police Scotland Safety Cameras remains committed to fostering a culture of road safety and encourages ongoing compliance with speed limits.”
What speed cameras are no longer in use?
A1 at Cockburnspath Scottish Borders
A1 at East Reston Scottish Borders
A1 Heughead Farm Scottish Borders
A1, North Lamberton
A1 at Penmanshiel Scottish Borders
A1 at Redhall Scottish Borders
A68 at Birkenside Scottish Borders
A68 at Blackburn Scottish Borders
A68 at Earlston Scottish Borders
A68 at Headshaw Scottish Borders
A68 at Hiltonshill Scottish Borders
A68 at Jedburgh Scottish Borders
A68 at Longnewton Scottish Borders
A68 at Newton Scottish Borders
A68 at Thirlstane Scottish Borders
A68 at Whitslaid Scottish Borders
A697 at Cleekhimin Bridge, Borders
A697 at Crawlee, Borders Greenlaw, Borders
A697 at Harchendize, Borders
A697 at Ink Bottle Lodge, Borders
A697 Rumbletonrig, Borders
A697 At West Clock Lodge, Borders
A697 at Westmains, Borders
A698 at Ashybank, Borders
A698, Eckford Road End, Crailing, Borders
A7 Crookston
A701, Broughton, Borders
A703, Edinburgh Road, Peebles
A701 at Leadburn Moor, Borders
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/